Dillon Gabriel opens up on being a natural born leader

With all the changes in Norman this offseason, the Sooners needed someone to lead during the changing of the guard. A change the size of the one Oklahoma went through made it seem someone who had previous experience in the program would be the best option. However, UCF transfer quarterback Dillon Gabriel has slid in nicely into that role.

Gabriel talked during media last week about his ability to lead. He says it’s something that has always come natural to him as a person but also because of the position he has always played.

CLICK HERE to subscribe for FREE to the On3 YouTube channel

“It definitely just comes naturally to me as something playing the position you’ve got to be really good at. Just being the leader of the huddle,” said Gabriel. “Guys in the huddle are looking at you to be that voice of belief and confidence.”

Gabriel’s previous experience in college football likely helped empower him to be a leader from the start at Oklahoma. He started from the jump down in Orlando with the Golden Knights and has 26 games of experience under his belt. Gabriel also has a former UCF connection with OC Jeff Lebby which has further built on his comfort level.

With the circumstances around Gabriel in place, he can now focus on playing his position and leading his teammates forward. Those past experiences have helped him take the reins. However, he says his natural instinct to do so has helped separate him in the Sooner program.

“I think it’s something that I’ve learned but something that comes really naturally to me,” Gabriel said.

Dillon Gabriel will be looked to early and often with so much new going on at Oklahoma. His status as the Sooner’s starting quarterback puts him in a natural position to lead. However, a coach can’t teach leadership. It’s something he knew how to do early in his playing career and may be a big difference in Norman this fall.